Hon Tony Ryall
National Party Health Spokesman

12 December 2005

National congratulates Minister on U-turn

National's Health spokesman, Tony Ryall, is congratulating Minister of Health Pete Hodgson for his U-turn on stockpiling antibiotics for a possible pandemic.

"This is a sensible move that could save many lives,” says Mr Ryall.

"National proposed this some weeks ago in Parliament. But sadly, Mr Hodgson dismissed the suggestion. Good on him for listening to our advice now.

"This shows what could be achieved from a multi-party approach to pandemic planning. We have been seeking such an approach and are waiting for his call.

"Next, the Minister should be taking similar action to increase the stocks of essential personal medicines like insulin and warfarin,” says Mr Ryall.

ENDS

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